This course provides opportunities for students to explore dramatic forms and techniques, using material from a wide range of sources and cultures. Students will use the elements of drama to examine situations and issues that are relevant to their lives. Students will create, perform, discuss, and analyse drama, and then reflect on the experiences to develop an understanding of themselves, the art form, and the world around them.
Prerequisite: None
Grade 8 to Grade 9 Transition
Our White Oaks Secondary School community is excited to welcome our future Wildcats and their families to begin the transition process to Grade 9!
Please review the following key dates for our 8 - 9 Transitions. See here.
If you have any questions about the 8 - 9 process, please email our 8 - 9 Transitions Guidance Counsellor, Steven Lebourveau at: lebourveaus@hdsb.ca
Grade 8 Information Night Presentation Grade 9 Presentation Meet WOSS Staff and Students White Oaks Virtual Tour Grade 8 to 9 FAQs Areas of Study Selecting Courses for Grade 9
AMU1O1 Instrumental Music, Grade 9, Open
This course emphasizes the creation and performance of music at a level consistent with previous experience and is aimed at developing technique, sensitivity, and imagination. Students will develop musical literacy skills by using the creative and critical analysis processes in composition, performance, and a range of reflective and analytical activities. Students will develop an understanding of the conventions and elements of music and of safe practices related to music, and will develop a variety of skills transferable to other areas of their life.
Prerequisite: None
AMU1O2 9th Credit Instrumental Music, Grade 9, Open
This course emphasizes the creation and performance of music at a level consistent with previous experience and is aimed at developing technique, sensitivity, and imagination. Students will develop musical literacy skills by using the creative and critical analysis processes in composition, performance, and a range of reflective and analytical activities. Students will develop an understanding of the conventions and elements of music and of safe practices related to music, and will develop a variety of skills transferable to other areas of their life. This course runs all year during half of the lunch period. A student can only choose one 9th credit.
Prerequisite: None
AVI1O1 Visual Arts, Grade 9, Open
This course is exploratory in nature, offering an overview of visual arts as a foundation for further study. Students will become familiar with the elements and principles of design and the expressive qualities of various materials by using a range of media, processes, techniques, and styles. Students will use the creative and critical analysis processes and will interpret art within a personal, contemporary, and historical context.
Prerequisite: None
BEM1OO Building the Entrepreneurial Mindset, Grade 9, Open, Online Only NEW
In this course, students will learn what makes an entrepreneur thrive and the skills required to succeed in today’s business environment. Students will begin to develop their own entrepreneurial mindset, and learn why it’s important to take initiative, adapt to change, find creative solutions, and understand the financial considerations of entrepreneurship. This hands-on course will use business software and applications to help students plan and develop their entrepreneurial ideas and learn how to present them to a target audience. Throughout the course, students will enhance their communications skills as well as develop and refine their project management skills, including goal setting, time management, and networking.
Prerequisite: None
BEM1O1 Building the Entrepreneurial Mindset, Grade 9, Open
In this course, students will learn what makes an entrepreneur thrive and the skills required to succeed in today’s business environment. Students will begin to develop their own entrepreneurial mindset, and learn why it’s important to take initiative, adapt to change, find creative solutions, and understand the financial considerations of entrepreneurship. This hands-on course will use business software and applications to help students plan and develop their entrepreneurial ideas and learn how to present them to a target audience. Throughout the course, students will enhance their communications skills as well as develop and refine their project management skills, including goal setting, time management, and networking.
Prerequisite: None
CGC1W1 Exploring Canadian Geography, Grade 9, De-Streamed NEW
This course examines interrelationships within and between Canada’s natural and human systems and how these systems interconnect with those in other parts of the world. Students will explore environmental, economic, and social geographic issues relating to topics such as transportation options, energy choices, and urban development. Students will apply the concepts of geographic thinking and the geographic inquiry process, including spatial.
Prerequisite: None
ENL1W1 English, Grade 9, De-Streamed
This course enables students to continue to develop and consolidate the foundational knowledge and skills that they need for reading, writing, and oral and visual communication. Throughout the course, students will continue to enhance their media literacy and critical literacy skills, and to develop and apply transferable skills, including digital literacy. Students will also make connections to their lived experiences and to society and increase their understanding of the importance of language and literacy across the curriculum.
Prerequisite: None
FSF1D1 Core French, Grade 9, Academic
This course provides opportunities for students to communicate and interact in French with increasing independence, with a focus on familiar topics related to their daily lives. Students will continue to develop language knowledge and skills by using language-learning strategies introduced in the elementary Core French program, and will apply creative and critical thinking skills in various ways. They will also enhance their understanding and appreciation of diverse French-speaking communities, and will develop the skills necessary to become life-long language learners.
Prerequisite: Minimum of 600 hours of French instruction, or equivalent
GLE1O1 Learning Strategies 1: Skills for Success in Secondary School, Grade 9, Open
This course focuses on learning strategies to help students become better, more independent learners. Students will learn how to develop and apply literacy and numeracy skills, personal management skills, and interpersonal and teamwork skills to improve their learning and achievement in school, the workplace, and the community. The course helps students build confidence and motivation to pursue opportunities for success in secondary school and beyond.
Prerequisite: Recommendation of Principal
MTH1W1 Mathematics, Grade 9, De-Streamed
This course enables students to consolidate, and continue to develop, an understanding of mathematical concepts related to number sense and operations, algebra, measurement, geometry, data, probability, and financial literacy. Students will use mathematical processes, mathematical modeling, and coding to make sense of the mathematics they are learning and to apply their understanding to culturally responsive and relevant real-world situations. Students will continue to enhance their mathematical reasoning skills, including proportional reasoning, spatial reasoning, and algebraic reasoning, as they solve problems and communicate their thinking.
Prerequisite: None
PPL10F Healthy Active Living Education, Grade 9, Open, Female
FEMALE: This course emphasizes regular participation in a variety of enjoyable physical activities that promote lifelong healthy active living. Students will learn movement skills and principles, ways to improve personal fitness and physical competence, and safety and injury prevention. They will investigate issues related to healthy sexuality and the use and abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs, and will participate in activities designed to develop goal-setting, communication, and social skills.
Prerequisite: None
BEM1O1 Building the Entrepreneurial Mindset, Grade 9, Open
In this course, students will learn what makes an entrepreneur thrive and the skills required to succeed in today’s business environment. Students will begin to develop their own entrepreneurial mindset, and learn why it’s important to take initiative, adapt to change, find creative solutions, and understand the financial considerations of entrepreneurship. This hands-on course will use business software and applications to help students plan and develop their entrepreneurial ideas and learn how to present them to a target audience. Throughout the course, students will enhance their communications skills as well as develop and refine their project management skills, including goal setting, time management, and networking.
Prerequisite: None
PPL1OM Healthy Active Living Education, Grade 9, Open, Male
MALE: This course emphasizes regular participation in a variety of enjoyable physical activities that promote lifelong healthy active living. Students will learn movement skills and principles, ways to improve personal fitness and physical competence, and safety and injury prevention. They will investigate issues related to healthy sexuality and the use and abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs, and will participate in activities designed to develop goal-setting, communication, and social skills.
Prerequisite: None
PAF1O1 Healthy Living and Individual/Small Group Activities, Grade 9, Open, Gender Inclusive
This course enables students to further develop the knowledge and skills they need to make healthy choices now and lead healthy, active lives in the future. Through participation in a wide range of physical activities, students develop knowledge and skills related to movement competence and personal fitness that provide a foundation for active living. Students also acquire an understanding of the factors and skills that contribute to healthy development and learn how their own well-being is affected by, and affects, the world around them. Students build their sense of self, learn to interact positively with others, and develop their ability to think critically and creatively. This course will develop skills and focus on a variety of individual, dual, and small group activities, such as skating, stickhandling, passing, shooting, battle drills, and spatial awareness skills on a more complex level.
Prerequisite: None
SNC1W1 Science, Grade 9, De-Streamed
This course enables students to develop their understanding of concepts related to biology, chemistry, physics, and earth and space science, and to relate science to technology, society, and the environment. Throughout the course, students will develop and refine their STEM skills as they use scientific research, scientific experimentation, and engineering design processes to investigate concepts and apply their knowledge in situations that are relevant to their lives and communities. Students will continue to develop transferable skills as they become scientifically literate global citizens.
Prerequisite: None
ESLDO1 English as a Second Language, Level 4, Open
This course prepares students to use English with increasing fluency and accuracy in classroom and social situations and to participate in Canadian society as informed citizens. Students will develop the oral-presentation, reading, and writing skills required for success in all school subjects. They will extend listening and speaking skills through participation in 63 discussions and seminars; study and interpret a variety of grade-level texts; write narratives, articles, and summaries in English; and respond critically to a variety of print and media texts.
Prerequisite: ESL Level 3 or Equivalent
ESLEO1 English as a Second Language, Level 5, Open
This course provides students with the skills and strategies they need to make the transition to college and university preparation courses in English and other secondary school disciplines. Students will be encouraged to develop independence in a range of academic tasks. They will participate in debates and lead classroom workshops; read and interpret literary works and academic texts; write essays, narratives, and reports; and apply a range of learning strategies and research skills effectively. Students will further develop their ability to respond critically to print and media texts.
Prerequisite: ESL Level 4, or Equivalent
TAS1O1 Technology & the Skilled Trades, Grade 9, Open NEW
This hands-on course enables students to further explore the engineering design process and develop other technological knowledge and skills introduced in earlier grades. Students will design and safely create prototypes, products, and/or services, working with tools and technologies from various industries. As students develop their projects to address real-life problems, they will apply technological concepts such as precision measurement, as well as health and safety standards. Students will begin to explore job skills programs and education and training pathways, including skilled trades, that can lead to a variety of careers.
See below for Unit descriptions.
Prerequisite: None
Woodworking Unit
This unit is designed to give students some basic skills using hand tools and power machinery to create 2 small projects, made of wood. Each project represents the 2 focus courses in grades 10 through 12, which are Construction and Custom Woodworking. Safety is always a priority and instruction and testing is necessary before tool use.
Technological Design Unit
This unit is outlined to give students some basic design skills using sketching, computer design software and their creative minds, to fabricate design projects with focus on architectural and interior design. Each project created in this grade 9 unit focuses on these two specific subject areas, in grades 10 through 12. These courses are part of our ICT SHSM program (Information and Communications Technology Specialist High Skills Major).
Transportation Unit
This unit is designed to give students an introduction to vehicle ownership and maintenance. Students work through 9 stations completing tasks such as fluid checks, tire maintenance, roadside spare tire change and many other life skills, that can be used throughout their lives. Students complete safety passports for tools and equipment use before the projects are started to ensure a safe environment and productive for their classmates and themselves.
Cosmetology Unit
This unit is designed to give students an introduction to hairstyling and aesthetics. Students work through 10 tasks such as eyebrow threading, different types of hair braiding, updos, shampooing and blow drying hair, and the safe use of thermal irons. Students complete safety passports for tools and equipment use before the tasks are started, in order to ensure a safe and productive environment for their classmates and themselves.
Communication Technology Unit
This unit is designed to give students an introduction to digital photography and picture composition. Using Adobe Photoshop Elements students explore the possibilities of picture manipulation and editing. PSE is a very powerful program that can be applied in all areas of study. In grades 11 and 12, students have the choice of two areas of focus, Communication Technology and TV, Video & Movie Production. These courses are part of our ICT SHSM program (Information and Communications Technology Specialist High Skills Major).
Computer Engineering Unit
This unit is designed to give students some basic skills in designing and writing computer code. They will also have an opportunity to build simple electronic circuits. Each project represents the 2 focus courses in grades 10 through 12, which are Computer Engineering and Computer Science. Safety is always a priority and instruction and testing is necessary before tool use. These courses are part of our ICT SHSM program (Information and Communications Technology Specialist High Skills Major).
Grade 9 at the HDSB
Where Your Future Begins
The move from Grade 8 to Grade 9 is a major milestone that is exciting, empowering and full of possibility. At the HDSB, we understand that starting high school is more than just a change in schedule; it's the beginning of a journey that will shape who you become, both in and beyond the classroom. We’re here to support students every step of the way with caring educators, dynamic programs and a community that’s invested in every student’s success. From building confidence to discovering passions, this is where futures begin and we can’t wait to help you take that first step.
From experiential learning opportunities to co-operative education placements, we offer a wide range of programs tailored to the diverse needs, interests and goals of our learners.
HDSB Family Livestreams
- September 24: Grade 8-9 Transition Family Livestream
- October 14: Advanced Placement Program Livestream
High School Information Nights
East Area - Oakville
School | Address | Specialized Programs | Date & Time |
---|---|---|---|
Abbey Park High School (905) 827-4101 www.hdsb.ca/aph |
1455 Glen Abbey Gate Oakville |
Secondary Gifted Cluster | Thursday, Nov 13 6 – 9:30 p.m. |
Garth Webb Secondary School (905) 847-6875 www.hdsb.ca/gws |
2820 Westoak Trails Blvd Oakville |
French Immersion Secondary Gifted Cluster Advanced Placement Prep ESL Centre |
Thursday, Nov 20 6:30 – 8 p.m. |
Iroquois Ridge High School (905) 845-0012 www.hdsb.ca/irs |
1123 Glenashton Drive Oakville |
French Immersion Secondary Gifted Cluster Advanced Placement (exams and some Grade 12 course options) ESL Centre |
Thursday, Nov 13 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. |
Oakville Trafalgar High School (905) 845-2875 www.hdsb.ca/oth |
1460 Devon Road Oakville |
French Immersion Secondary Gifted Cluster Advanced Placement (dozens of exams and six course options over Grades 11 and 12) |
Thursday, Nov 13 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. |
T.A. Blakelock High School (905) 827-1158 www.hdsb.ca/tab |
1160 Rebecca Street Oakville |
Community Pathways ESL Centre French Immersion I-STEM Advanced Placement Prep Grade 11 and 12 AP courses (based on student interest) Secondary Gifted Cluster |
Thursday, Nov 20 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. I-STEM: Thursday, Oct 23, 6:30 p.m. |
White Oaks Secondary School (905) 845-5200 www.hdsb.ca/wos |
1330 Montclair Drive Oakville |
Community Pathways ESL Centre French Immersion International Baccalaureate Locally Developed Secondary Gifted Cluster (September 2026) |
Thursday, Nov 6 6 – 8 p.m. IBDP Prep: Thursday, Oct 16, 6 p.m. & 7 p.m. |
North Area - Halton Hills, Georgetown, Milton
North Area – Halton Hills, Georgetown, Milton
School | Address | Specialized Programs | Date & Time |
---|---|---|---|
Acton District School (519) 853-2920 www.hdsb.ca/act |
21 Cedar Road Acton |
French Immersion Advanced Placement Prep |
Thursday Oct 16 6:00-6:30 p.m. AP Presentation 7:00- 8:30 p.m. Info night includes an AP prep presentation |
Craig Kielburger Secondary School (905) 878-0575 www.hdsb.ca/cks |
1151 Ferguson Drive Milton |
Community Pathways ESL Centre French Immersion International Baccalaureate Locally Developed |
Thursday, Oct 30 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. |
Elsie MacGill Secondary School (289) 878-4881 www.hdsb.ca/ems |
1410 Bronte St. South Milton |
Community Pathways I-STEM |
Thursday, Nov 6 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. I-STEM: Thursday, Oct 23, 6:30 p.m. |
Georgetown District High School (905) 877-6966 www.hdsb.ca/geo |
70 Guelph Street Georgetown |
Community Pathways French Immersion International Baccalaureate Locally Developed Secondary Gifted Cluster |
Thursday, Nov 20 6:30 – 8 p.m. IBDP Prep: Thursday, Oct 16, 6:30 p.m. |
Milton District High School (905) 878-2839 www.hdsb.ca/mil |
396 Williams Avenue Milton |
Advanced Placement Prep French Immersion Secondary Gifted Cluster |
Thursday, Oct 30 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. |
West Area – Burlington
School | Address | Specialized Programs | Date & Time |
---|---|---|---|
Aldershot School (905) 637-2383 www.hdsb.ca/ald |
50 Fairwood Place West Burlington |
I-STEM Advanced Placement Prep |
Thursday, Oct 23 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. I-STEM: Thursday, Oct 23, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. |
Burlington Central High School (905) 634-7768 www.hdsb.ca/bch |
1433 Baldwin Street Burlington |
ESL Centre French Immersion International Baccalaureate |
Thursday, Nov 20 6:30 – 8 p.m. IBDP Prep: Thursday, Oct 16, 6:30 p.m. |
Dr. Frank J. Hayden Secondary School (905) 332-5235 www.hdsb.ca/dfh |
3040 Tim Dobbie Drive Burlington |
Secondary Gifted Cluster Advanced Placement |
Thursday, Nov 13 6:30 – 8 p.m. |
M.M. Robinson High School (905) 335-5588 www.hdsb.ca/mmr |
2425 Upper Middle Road Burlington |
Community Pathways Extended French French Immersion Locally Developed Secondary Gifted Cluster |
Thursday, Nov 20 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. In person |
Nelson High School (905) 637-3825 www.hdsb.ca/nel |
4181 New Street Burlington |
Community Pathways French Immersion Locally Developed Secondary Gifted Cluster Advanced Placement High Performance Program |
Thursday, Nov 13 5:30 p.m. |
Regional Information Sessions
*International Baccalaureate (IB / IBDP Prep) - October 16 (see start times below)
- Burlington Central High School (6:30 pm)
- Craig Kielburger Secondary School (6:30 pm)
- Georgetown District High School (6:30 pm)
- White Oaks Secondary School (6:00 pm and 7:00 pm); Two 30 minute sessions each
- Aldershot School
- Elsie MacGill Secondary School
- TA Blakelock High School
2025-26 Virtual Information Sessions:
- Advanced Placement Program (AP) - October 14 (7:00 pm start): Livestream Link
- SHSM, OYAP, Dual Credit Programs - October 22 (7:00 pm start): Livestream Link
- Locally Developed Program (LDCC) - October 29 (7:00 pm start): Livestream Link
- Community Pathways Program (CPP) - November 17 (7:00 pm start): Google Meet link
Guide to Secondary School
The Halton District School Board's Guide to Secondary School is intended for all secondary students at the HDSB. The guide outlines course information, graduation requirements, Pathways Opportunities and additional learning through initiatives such as eLearning and co-operative education, athletic involvement and co-curricular activities and more.
When Grade 8 students graduate to high school, support is provided for the student as well as their parents from their elementary and secondary schools to make the transition is as easy as possible.
Students Can Expect
- guidance visits to all elementary feeder schools
- Grade 8 information evening (parent and student)
- Grade 8 visits/tours
- orientation to secondary school with student mentors
- Grade 9 activities and events throughout the year
Parents Should
- know your teenagers timetable
- access school website and newsletters to get information
- encourage your child to participate in school events, clubs and activities
- connect with teachers at the school
- encourage your child to find solutions by talking to their teacher, guidance counsellor, student success teacher, special education teacher or Principal when they need help
- talk to your child about their day
What are Student Mentors?
Every secondary school has student mentors that act as role models for incoming Grade 9 students.
These mentors play a major part in planning activities for Grade 9 as they start secondary school. Students are grouped with the mentors to help them become familiar with life at high school. Events such as tours, dances, and BBQs help develop a strong sense of community for the student. Student mentors stay connected to Grade 9 students throughout the year to support academic success and community building.
Every student is encouraged to take full advantage of a wide range of activities, sports and clubs so they can experience all that high school has to offer.
Getting Ready for High School
The move from elementary or middle school up to high school is one of the biggest transitions in a student’s education. To help families feel prepared, visit the Getting ready for high school webpage on Ontario.ca to learn what to expect and how to support your child through this important step.
Here’s how this webpage can help:
- Understand the changes: Learn how high school is organized, from semesters and timetables to different types of courses.
- Know the requirements: Get clear information on credits, graduation requirements and pathways after high school.
- See what supports exist: Find out about student success teams and other supports in place to help every student succeed.
- Reduce uncertainty: Get answers to common questions so you and your child feel confident and ready for this new chapter.